17 MPG combined is the price for relentless performance and bespoke luxury. The 2023 Porsche Panamera Turbo S Executive shrinks distances with ferocious speed while surrounding occupants in handcrafted luxury. This isn’t a hypermiling champion, and no one spending over $200,000 on this car expects it to be. It’s for the CEO who needs to be in two states before lunch, the hedge fund manager for whom time is money, and anyone who demands speed and space. They accept the penalty at the pump because the Panamera Turbo S Executive delivers a driving experience that few vehicles can match.

City and highway performance

Around town, the Panamera Turbo S Executive uses fuel at 15 MPG. Stop-and-go traffic takes its toll, but even then, the throttle response and the twin-turbo V8 remind you where your money went. Out on the open road, the news improves slightly, with 21 MPG on the highway. The eight-speed automatic transmission (AM-S8) optimizes fuel consumption during cruising. Temptation waits around every bend. The sound and the passing power encourage a heavier right foot, which will quickly reduce those highway gains. The Panamera’s all-wheel-drive system ensures grip in all weather, encouraging spirited driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Porsche Panamera Turbo S Executive will be $3,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving that reflects the EPA’s standardized testing, using national average fuel prices for the premium gasoline this high-performance engine requires. It’s a significant sum, but one that is likely a rounding error in the annual budget of most Panamera Turbo S Executive owners. It’s worth keeping in mind if your driving habits skew heavily towards city usage or involve frequent track days.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. With a vehicle as powerful as the Panamera Turbo S Executive, driving style plays a big role. A relaxed, smooth approach can get you close to the EPA estimates, especially on longer highway journeys. Exploit the car’s capabilities, that’s what it’s designed for, and you can expect lower numbers. Aggressive acceleration and use of Sport modes will all take a toll. Plan accordingly, and don’t be surprised if you see averages closer to the low teens in enthusiastic use. For more information, research the PANAMERA MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance luxury sedans, the Panamera Turbo S Executive’s fuel economy is as expected. The Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance, offers greater peak horsepower thanks to its hybrid system and reports a combined 18 MPG. The BMW M760i xDrive, with its V12 engine, scores 15 MPG combined. The Aston Martin Rapide, another four-door grand tourer, manages 16 MPG combined. These comparisons are relevant because buyers in this segment cross-shop based on performance, luxury, and brand. Fuel economy often takes a backseat to other considerations.

Those seeking less gas within the Porsche family should investigate all Porsche fuel economy data, including the Panamera E-Hybrid models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly unleash the engine’s potential. The Panamera Turbo S Executive is deceptively quick, even at part throttle. Smooth acceleration will save fuel without sacrificing progress.

Use the available driving modes. The “Normal” mode is effective at balancing performance and efficiency. Save the “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes for when you need maximum responsiveness.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Incorrect tire pressure compromises handling and safety and increases rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly.

Avoid prolonged idling. Modern engines warm up quickly, and idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s better to switch off the engine.

Plan your routes to minimize stop-and-go traffic. Congestion burns fuel, as the engine consumes energy while the car is stationary. Use navigation apps to identify and avoid traffic hotspots.